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Month: August 2025

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Travel Featured

Solo, Not Sorry: Why 2025 is the Year to Travel on Your Own Terms

The rising trend is gaining momentum — here’s why it might be time for you to take the leap.

What’s your first reaction when someone mentions solo travel? Does your sense of adventure fire up — or does that little voice whisper: “Can I actually do this on my own?” Maybe it’s a bit of both.

The idea of travelling alone can be intimidating. But ask anyone who’s done it, and chances are, they’ll say the same thing: The freedom and discovery far outweigh the nerves.

And it’s not just a niche trend, either. A 2024 report by Forbes found that more people were travelling solo than ever. A survey by American Express revealed that 76% of Millennials and Gen-Z were planning solo trips that year. Nor is it just for singles — a Skyscanner report revealed that about a third of solo travellers were married.

The appeal is clear: No compromising, no negotiating and no waiting around for someone else to get ready. Want to linger at a café for hours? Go for it. Feel like scrapping your plan and chasing a sunset instead? Totally up to you. Most importantly, solo travel gives you space to reconnect with yourself, away from daily routines and expectations.

Intrigued? Here are 10 tips to help you make that solo travel dream a reality in 2025.

#1 START SMALL

There’s a lot to juggle when you’re planning a trip on your own, so don’t go too big too fast. Plan a short trip first — with fewer variables and chances for slip-ups, it’s a great way to dip your toes into solo travel.

Try a weekend escape to nearby spots like Bintan, Batam or Bali. You’ll get a taste of the teething pains of planning: Currency exchange, navigating local transport and chatting with locals. HomeTeamNS members, treat yourself to 45% OFF at Montigo Resorts Seminyak in Bali, or keep it chill with 30% OFF at The ANMON Resort Bintan’s dreamy glamping tents.

#2 PICK SOMEWHERE FAMILIAR

Don’t throw yourself into the deep end right away. Pick a destination where you speak the language, the infrastructure’s reliable and it’s known for being safe and easy to navigate.

For many Singaporeans, big cities feel familiar — Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Taipei are solid beginner-friendly picks. For added peace of mind, stay near tourist centres, embassies or police stations. These small steps can boost your confidence as you find your solo travel rhythm.

#3 PACK LIGHT AND STAY MOBILE

You’ll be lugging your own bags the whole time, so pack smart. Think one top per day, two to three bottoms for a week and a few pieces of quick-dry innerwear you can wash along the way. Skip the non-essentials and everyday items (think toothpaste or mouthwash) — you can always shop for them once you’re there.

For your first trip, it’s best to avoid destinations that require speciality gear like winter jackets or swimming rashguards. Bulky items weigh you down and can be a hassle to manage when you’re still finding your groove. Stick to temperate climates where light layers keep you comfy, stylish and stress-free.

#4 STAY IN SOCIAL ACCOMMODATIONS

Forget the old hostel clichés. Today’s social stays — like capsule hotels and co-living spaces — are stylish, clean and built with communal spaces to help you connect with fellow travellers.

Prefer a little more privacy? Many spots offer private rooms with the same social perks. Check out brands like lyf by Ascott, iBis Styles, Moxy and Meininger Hotels for a great mix of comfort and connection.

#5 JOIN A LOCAL TOUR AT THE START OF YOUR JOURNEY

Feeling shy about meeting people? Ease in by signing up for a local day tour, cooking class or walking tour during the first few days of your trip.

It’s a fun, low-pressure way to explore the destination, connect with fellow travellers and pick up insider tips you won’t find in any guidebook.

#6 STAY FLEXIBLE

One of the best things about solo travel? Complete freedom. Don’t over-schedule — leave room for detours, surprises or places you might want to linger in longer.

You may fall in love with a city and want to stay extra days, or find that it’s not your vibe and move on. Build buffer time between stops and keep a list of back-up spots to explore.

#7 PENCIL IN SOME DOWNTIME

It’s tempting to pack every hour with activity, but solo travel — especially at the start — can be surprisingly draining. That’s why it’s important to carve out moments to rest and recharge.

Use the downtime to jot thoughts in a journal, send postcards, revisit your photos — or simply sit back and soak in your surroundings with no agenda.

#8 USE THE RIGHT TECH

Digital apps have made travelling a breeze but remember: Different countries favour different platforms. In China, for instance, you’ll need VPNs and local apps (Klook has a solid list) to replace Google Maps, WhatsApp and Apple Pay. Pro tip: It’s best to set up these before you arrive in the country.

Elsewhere, ride-hailing and messaging apps differ, so do a quick check before you go. For translations in East Asia, Papago often beats Google Translate for accuracy. Apps like Google Maps and Notion also offer offline modes — a lifesaver if your Wi-Fi doesn’t kick in at the airport or you’re headed somewhere remote. Download maps and key documents in advance so you’re not caught off-guard.

#9 CONNECT WITH OTHERS ONLINE

Have questions before you fly? You’re not alone — and luckily, help is just a tap away. Plenty of platforms are designed to connect solo travellers and offer real-time, reliable info before you even take off.

Apps like Backpackr and Going Solo help you find like-minded adventurers, swap travel tips and browse destination-specific forums. Set your travel dates and location, and you’ll even see others headed the same way — perfect for a quick chat or meet-up.

#10 STAY SAFE AND CONTACTABLE

Solo travel means having to look out for yourself, so always take precautions and make safety a priority. Dress modestly to avoid drawing unwanted attention. Store your valuables in a safe, and keep essentials like phones and cameras in anti-theft bags. Put your cash in separate compartments, and save both digital and physical copies of key documents. And don’t forget to look up local emergency numbers.

Set a daily check-in with someone you trust — even a simple “All good!” text reassures both you and your loved ones that someone’s keeping tabs on your journey. If you ever feel uneasy, share your location or start a video call. To stay connected, get a reliable data plan such as that from AirSIM — HomeTeamNS members enjoy 15% OFF prepaid SIMs and 10% bonus credits.

THE MENTAL AND EMOTIONAL BENEFITS OF SOLO TRAVEL

Stepping out into the world alone isn’t just about a change in scenery — it can spark transformation from within.

  • Increased self-confidence: Making your own decisions and navigating the unknown builds trust in yourself — something this Forbes contributor discovered while diving into research and learning to adapt.
  • Improved resilience: Facing new environments sharpens your coping skills, according to Calm. Even small problem-solving moments can help you grow.
  • A stronger sense of identity: With no one else to answer to, solo travel lets you reconnect with who you are. For many women, this freedom is especially empowering, as Lonely Planet points out.

Like our stories? Subscribe to our Frontline Digital newsletters now! Simply download the HomeTeamNS Mobile App and update your communication preference to ‘Receive Digital Frontline Magazine’, through the App Settings.

Categories
In The Force Featured

Operation Lionheart in Myanmar: Up close with our medical doctors

When a powerful earthquake struck Myanmar in March 2025, two SCDF full-time National Servicemen (NSFs) medical doctors were deployed under Operation Lionheart. CPT (Dr) Quek Seng Leong (left) and CPT (Dr) Sarvananthan Rajragavan shared their experience on the ground and what the mission taught them about duty, resilience, and compassion.

At a local hospital in Naypyidaw, Myanmar, makeshift tents had been set up to house patients following the 7.7-magnitude earthquake on 28 March 2025. As people of all ages with injuries and ailments of varying severity waited in line, the medical staff worked tirelessly to attend to each patient.

Among the responders were CPT (Dr) Sarvananthan Rajragavan and CPT (Dr) Quek Seng Leong. Both 27, they had spent five years studying medicine and another two years specialising in hospitals before their National Service as medical doctors with the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF). They were part of SCDF’s 80-member Operation Lionheart contingent deployed to Myanmar on 29 March.

For the two young doctors, Operation Lionheart was more than just a mission. It reminded them of the fragility of life and the resilience of the human spirit in the wake of a disaster.

THE CALL OF DUTY

The six-member SCDF medical team in Myanmar. From left: Paramedics SGT3 Glenn Chua Chen Hwee, WO1 Divanraj Batumalai, LTA Joanne Lau and WO1 Au Lon Chiu Ben, with CPT (Dr) Sarvananthan Rajragavan and CPT (Dr) Quek Seng Leong.
The six-member SCDF medical team in Myanmar. From left: Paramedics SGT3 Glenn Chua Chen Hwee, WO1 Divanraj Batumalai, LTA Joanne Lau and WO1 Au Lon Chiu Ben, with CPT (Dr) Sarvananthan Rajragavan and CPT (Dr) Quek Seng Leong.

Raj and Seng Leong were conducting a routine lecture for the Rota Commander Course cadets, when they first received news of the devastating earthquake. Within hours, they were ready for deployment.

“When we heard about the earthquake, we were mentally ready to be deployed,” recalls Raj. “Such humanitarian missions embody what it means to be a doctor, using our knowledge and skills to bring relief and hope to those in need.”

En route to Naypyidaw, Seng Leong was already running through contingency plans in his mind. “I was thinking through the various medical scenarios. For instance, if 20 casualties were to come in at once, how should we prioritise and manage their treatment?” he shares. “With lots of support from our medical team, we adapted well to the situation.”

ON THE GROUND

Arriving in Naypyidaw within the critical 72-hour “golden window” for locating survivors, the team launched search operations immediately, working through the night to support rescue efforts.

“We followed our Disaster Assistance and Rescue Team (DART) Specialists, providing medical support during search and rescue operations,” says Raj. “Watching our DART colleagues enter partially collapsed structures in search of survivors was inspiring. Their dedication and courage motivated me to give my best too.”

SCDF rescued a man from a partially collapsed residential building after an eight-hour joint rescue operation with the Myanmar Fire Services Department. After LTA Joanne Lau (examining the man’s leg) assessed the man to be stable and conscious, he was conveyed to a local hospital.
SCDF rescued a man from a partially collapsed residential building after an eight-hour joint rescue operation with the Myanmar Fire Services Department. After LTA Joanne Lau (examining the man’s leg) assessed the man to be stable and conscious, he was conveyed to a local hospital.

One encounter left a deep impression on him. “A woman came to us in tears, asking us to rescue her son who was trapped beneath the rubble. I will never forget the pain in her eyes,” he recounts. “Having witnessed how people lost their family members and homes overnight taught me to never take our safety and security for granted.”

To further support affected communities, the contingent established medical outposts in Pyokkon and Dhakhinna Thiri Townships. There, they treated more than 130 residents — many of whom sustained earthquake-related injuries, while others suffered from dizziness, fatigue or musculoskeletal pain from carrying heavy loads while seeking safety.

(Left image) WO1 Divanraj Batumalai and CPT (Dr) Quek Seng Leong attending to a local resident. (Right image) SGT3 Glenn Chua Chen Hwee (first from right) and CPT (Dr) Sarvananthan Rajragavan (second from right) working alongside Hsu (third from right), a Burmese interpreter, as they provided medical care to patients on the ground.
(Left image) WO1 Divanraj Batumalai and CPT (Dr) Quek Seng Leong attending to a local resident. (Right image) SGT3 Glenn Chua Chen Hwee (first from right) and CPT (Dr) Sarvananthan Rajragavan (second from right) working alongside Hsu (third from right), a Burmese interpreter, as they provided medical care to patients on the ground.

“With their wealth of experience on the frontlines, our paramedics were incredibly skilled. There was deep mutual trust in the team, and we learnt much from each other,” Seng Leong shares. “Over time, we opened up, sharing our values and motivations. That really brought us closer together as a team.”

A NEW PERSPECTIVE

Back in Singapore, both doctors returned with a renewed sense of purpose. “Operation Lionheart has shown how Singapore can support our ASEAN neighbours in times of need,” Raj notes.

The medical team during a training session on 9 January 2025 at Paya Lebar Fire Station.
The medical team during a training session on 9 January 2025 at Paya Lebar Fire Station.

“I often ask myself, ‘how can I add value?’ and I realised that using my medical expertise to help others was the answer. Even after completing my full-time National Service, I hope to continue contributing to future Operation Lionheart missions as an Operationally Ready National Serviceman,” he adds with a smile.

For Seng Leong, the experience has changed his views of National Service. “National Service gives us the opportunity to contribute to the nation in our own unique way. Once you find meaning in what you do, you will discover a deep sense of purpose and fulfilment.”

*This story has been adapted from an article that was originally published in SCDF’s digital magazine, Rescue995.

Like our stories? Subscribe to our Frontline Digital newsletters now! Simply download the HomeTeamNS Mobile App and update your communication preference to ‘Receive Digital Frontline Magazine’, through the App Settings.

Categories
Close Up

From Climbing Walls to Running Trails: How This NSman Inspires Family Fitness and Resilience

DSP (NS) Muhammad Zaki bin Hyder’s fitness journey has always been powered by the people around him — from family and friends to fellow NSmen.

Back in 2002, as a student at Nanyang Polytechnic, DSP (NS) Muhammad Zaki bin Hyder found two lifelong passions — rock climbing, and Aini, his future wife. They met through the school’s climbing co-curricular activity, and his love for the sport quickly earned him the nickname “Spideyzek,” a nod to his Spider-Man gear and gravity-defying skills on the wall.

“The name just stuck,” he recalled. “I was drawn to climbing because I admired how fearless and fluid climbers looked. They seemed weightless — graceful, yet powerful.” testing

CLIMBING THROUGH LIFE — WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS

Zaki scaling the climbing walls at Adventure HQ

Now 39, Zaki is a cabin crew member, husband, and father to a nine-year-old daughter. While his rock climbing sessions are less frequent these days — limited to once or twice a month while overseas for work — the sport still holds a special place in his life.

He has also scaled at My Climbing Place located at Adventure HQ in HomeTeamNS Khatib, which he describes as clean and spacious, with friendly staff and a wide range of climbing options for all levels.

Zaki remains close to his climbing circle — a group of friends he’s known for over 20 years. “Rock climbing is like playing chess with your whole body,” he explained. “You have to be present, solve problems on the go, and think on your feet. It’s physically and mentally rewarding — much like life itself.”

IN STEP WITH CHANGE

Zaki (bottom row, third from right) at HomeTeamNS REAL® Run 2024 with his Alpha Division NSmen contingent

When gym access was restricted during the COVID-19 pandemic, Zaki turned to running as a way to stay active outdoors — and to finally train for triathlons, something he had been meaning to do for years. He started clocking 5 to 10km daily along park connectors near his home, sometimes joined by Aini when their schedules aligned.

“I never turn down an opportunity to run with my wife, especially when she’s the one who initiates it,” he shared. “My work schedule is erratic, so I usually run solo unless I can find someone whose timing matches mine.”

His favourite routes include Mandai T15, Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, and MacRitchie Reservoir. He’s also a regular at the REAL® Run, having joined the event four or five times — though he admits he’s lost count.

“It’s the one event where I reconnect with my Home Team buddies from the Singapore Police Force and Singapore Civil Defence Force,” he said. “I even clocked a personal best at one of the recent runs, so it’s a mix of family, friends, and personal challenge.”

One of his most memorable REAL® Run experiences? “It was held at Sentosa, and I participated with Aini, her sister, and my brother-in-law. They didn’t realise it included trail, road, and beach running. It was a surprise for them — but a fun one!”

A FAMILY THAT MOVES TOGETHER

Zaki, his wife Aini, and their daughter stay active together through regular family workouts

As parents, Zaki and Aini believe in leading by example when it comes to staying active. From a young age, their daughter was introduced to outdoor activities like swimming and hiking. Today, she joins them two to three times a week for family workouts that include cycling, running, badminton, or rollerblading.

She has even followed in her father’s climbing footsteps. Zaki recalls with pride how she overcame her initial fear of heights with repeated practice — eventually scaling the wall with confidence. “We believe that nature is a great teacher, and kids should be exposed to the outdoors early,” Zaki said. “Also, a family that sweats together, stays together. Sometimes, she’s the one who initiates these sessions, which we see as great bonding time.”

STRONGER THAN BEFORE

Zaki participated in the V Trail Laos – Vang Vien Trail 23km Race in February 2023

Sport has been more than a hobby for Zaki — it has been a lifeline. In 2009, he was involved in a serious motorcycle accident while returning from reservist training. The injuries were so severe that doctors initially feared they might have to amputate his left leg. “But when I woke up after the first operation and saw my leg still intact — with metal rods sticking out — I felt like I’d been given a second chance,” he shared.

That chance came with a long and painful recovery. Zaki had to relearn basic movements like walking, squatting, and climbing stairs. It took two years before he could run again — and even then, with a limp. But the experience transformed his perspective. “Rehabilitation gave me a different outlook on life. Being able to walk for hours on your own two legs is something many of us take for granted. I didn’t anymore,” he said.

The accident didn’t deter him. In fact, it fuelled his desire to push limits. In the years since, Zaki has taken up triathlons, motocross in New Zealand, scuba diving in the Maldives, and most recently, ultramarathons — completing distances ranging from 50km to 100km. “I used to think anyone who ran more than 10km was nuts,” he joked. “Now I’m aiming for another 100km soon — and maybe even a 100-miler (161km) one day.”

HONOURING 20 YEARS OF SERVICE

As Zaki reflects on his sporting milestones, he’s also proud of his long-standing service as a Police NSman (PNSman). Currently the Commanding Officer (CO) of Division Special Task Troop 10, he oversees the operational readiness of his fellow NSmen and supports their deployments throughout the year.

One of his most meaningful contributions was serving as Guard of Honour Contingent Commander at the most recent Police Day Observance Ceremony, commemorating 50 years of Police National Service. “It marked 20 years since I entered the Old Police Academy in 2005 as a trainee special constable. Marching in the parade again — two decades later — was a full-circle moment,” he said. “It was an honour to represent NSmen and share my journey with the younger officers just starting theirs.”

At this year’s REAL® Run, Zaki is looking forward to reconnecting with fellow NSmen, new and old. His advice to first-timers? “It’s not about how fast or far you run — it’s about showing up. Come with your friends and family. Even if you come alone, you’ll make friends. Either way you are bound to meet like-minded individuals, and the atmosphere is incredible. You won’t regret coming for the run.”

SIGN UP FOR REAL® RUN 2025

The 29th edition of HomeTeamNS REAL® Run will make its thrilling debut at the Punggol Digital District this year, with the signature 10km, 5km, and 1.6km Fun Walk categories, giving runners of all levels a chance to conquer new ground that blends sleek urban cityscapes with scenic natural views. Gather your fam and friends and head over to this website to register. Hurry! Registrations close on 18 September 2025 at 1pm.

Like our stories? Subscribe to our Frontline Digital newsletters now! Simply download the HomeTeamNS Mobile App and update your communication preference to ‘Receive Digital Frontline Magazine’, through the App Settings.

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Club Buzz Featured

6 Reasons to Bring the Whole Family to HomeTeamNS Family Day 2025

This year’s event celebrates the bonds behind every NSman with a single pass that unlocks exclusive activities, exciting perks, and family fun — all at Jewel Changi Airport’s Canopy Park.

Weekends don’t come more exciting than this. On 6 September 2025, HomeTeamNS Family Day will take over Jewel Changi Airport’s Canopy Park from 10am to 3pm, transforming it into a vibrant playground for HomeTeamNS members and their loved ones.

Set against the stunning backdrop of one of Singapore’s most iconic venues, this year’s edition promises more than a fun day out — it’s about pausing from the hustle and reconnecting with family and loved ones. With fun attractions, one-pass access, and special event perks, this is one Saturday get-together you won’t want to miss.

Here are 6 reasons why HomeTeamNS Family Day 2025 is the perfect day out for the whole family:

1. NATURE MEETS ADVENTURE AT THE CROWN JEWEL OF JEWEL

Perched on the top floor of Jewel, Canopy Park is packed with attractions that combine fun, play, and nature —  and with your HomeTeamNS Family Day 2025 ticket, you’ll get unlimited access to all of it:

  • Discovery Slides: Sculptural slides that double as a playground for kids with energy to burn.
  • Foggy Bowls: A mist-filled play zone for younger children to roam, imagine, and play.
  • Hedge and Mirror Mazes: Navigate twisting paths and challenge the family to a fun race to escape.
  • Bouncing and Walking Nets: Suspended high above the ground, these nets offer a thrill along with sweeping views of Jewel’s lush indoor landscape.
  • Canopy Bridge: Think stunning photo opportunities and a gripping vantage point. Experience the Mastercard® Canopy Bridge, where walking among the clouds becomes a picture-perfect moment.

2. ONE PASS, ZERO FUSS

Planning a family outing shouldn’t feel like a logistics marathon. At HomeTeamNS Family Day 2025, one ticket gets you through everything at Canopy Park — no need to fumble with multiple passes.

 It’s a one-ticket, all-access, stress-free experience from start to finish: just show up, get your exclusive goodie bag, and let the fun begin — the way family time should be.

3. HUGE VALUE IN ONE TICKET

At just $32 per ticket, or $120 for a bundle of four, HomeTeamNS Family Day 2025 packs incredible value. For comparison, the Bouncing Net attraction alone costs $20.90 per adult on a regular day.

Each HomeTeamNS Family Day 2025 ticket includes:

  • All-access entry to Canopy Park attractions
  • A HomeTeamNS 20th Anniversary commemorative pack with limited edition goodies
  • Lucky draw chances
  • Fun-filled activities throughout the day
  • Exclusive members’ discounts and perks

It’s everything you need for a fun-filled outing — at a fraction of the usual price.

4. EXCLUSIVE PERKS YOU WON’T FIND EVERY DAY

HomeTeamNS Family Day 2025 isn’t just about access to Canopy Park — it’s also packed with unique activities you won’t find on a normal visit.

These include:

  • “Wow Wow Wednesday” Live Station: Hosted by emcees, this interactive booth lets you snap up discounted brand vouchers — but they’re limited and only for event attendees so you’ll need to be quick!
  • Balloon Sculpting and Face & Hand Painting: Always a hit with younger kids!
  • Photobooth fun: Capture the memories with your loved ones at our compact self-service photobooth by Solace Studio. Step in, smile, and take home the moment.
  • Pointy Rice’s Caifan Stickers: Grab quirky cai fan-themed stickers by Pointy Rice, served with a twist. It’s cute, nostalgic, and full of local flavour.
  • Stage Performances: Catch lively stage acts including a magic show, muppet show, interactive games, and a vibrant performance from Republic Polytechnic’s ‘Beats Encore’ Brazilian percussion group. Great fun for kids and grown-ups alike!

5. REAL TIME TOGETHER, NO DISTRACTIONS

With busy work weeks and school schedules, it’s rare to enjoy uninterrupted time together. Family Day gives everyone the chance to simply be present. From tumbling in Foggy Bowls to wandering through the Mirror Maze, or just enjoying snacks on a bench — it’s the kind of low-stress, high-reward day that everyone needs once in a while.

6. CELEBRATE THE HOME TEAM SPIRIT

HomeTeamNS Family Day 2025 is also a tribute to the support network behind every NSman. As it is an exclusive event open only to HomeTeamNS members and their loved ones, they will have the entire park to themselves. It’s a chance to say thank you to the parents, spouses, siblings, and children who stand behind our Home Team heroes.

HomeTeamNS Family Day 2025 at a Glance

  • Date: Saturday, 6 September 2025, from 10am to 3pm
  • Venue: Jewel Changi Airport, Canopy Park
  • Tickets: $32 each / $120 for four, from here
  • Special highlights: Entry to all Canopy Park attractions, exclusive goodie bag, “Wow Wow Wednesday” Live Station

Registrations close on 3 September 2025, so don’t miss the chance to grab your tickets and get ready for a day out with your fam and friends!

Like our stories? Subscribe to our Frontline Digital newsletters now! Simply download the HomeTeamNS Mobile App and update your communication preference to ‘Receive Digital Frontline Magazine’, through the App Settings.

Categories
Singapore Buzz Featured

SG60 Playlist: The Songs That Made Us

 From nostalgic oldies to indie gems and National Day favourites, CPL (NS) Sharne Sulaiman’s made-in-Singapore mixtape is a love letter to local music — and it’ll have you humming along.

Though trained as an architect, CPL (NS) Sharne Sulaiman has always had a deep connection with music. “My grandfather is local composer Seong Koon Low Won (上官流云), who wrote famous songs like Midnight Kiss (午夜香吻) and Walk Faster (行快点啦),” shares the 30-year-old. “From the beginning, I was exposed to all sorts of music. I don’t remember a moment where my family was not gathered around the keyboard or listening to something on the speaker.”

While his grandfather wrote prolifically in Mandarin, Cantonese, Hokkien, and Hakka — often mixing in Malay in keeping with the “Nanyang flavour” of the 1950s — Sharne charted his own musical path. He fell in love with musical theatre at the age of 10, after watching The Phantom of the Opera, and taught himself keyboards, guitar, drums, and violin.

Mr Roger Tan with his son and Mdm Lim.

Sharne (in blue) stepping into the shoes of the scheming Iago in NUS High’s 2012 production of Othello, which clinched a Silver at the Singapore Youth Festival.

Over the years, he’s embraced a wide spectrum of genres, from opera to jazz. “Opera is gesamtkunstwerk — a complete work of art,” he explains. “Every element — from the music and lyrics to the staging — drives the story forward, and that level of compositional genius fascinates me. Jazz, on the other hand, is all about tension and complexity within the chords.”

MUSIC, MEMORIES AND GIVING BACK

These days, Sharne puts his musical skills to good use, performing annually at charity concerts and making regular appearances at musical theatre open mic nights.

Performing “All I Ask of You” from The Phantom of the Opera in a heartfelt duet at a musical theatre open mic.

He even had performing experiences during his National Service (NS), when he served as a Staff Assistant to the Director at the Police National Service Department (PNSD). At one internal event, he took the stage with fellow officers — an experience that, he says, helped bring them closer.

In 2023, he returned to the spotlight at the HomeTeamNS Awards at HomeTeamNS Bedok Reservoir, where guests were treated to his soulful renditions of classic tunes such as Proud Mary and Man in the Mirror.

In his element on stage at the HomeTeamNS Awards 2023, Sharne brings his musical flair to the evening’s celebrations.

Another unforgettable moment from his NS days? A Hari Raya celebration back in 2013, where Singapore Idol finalist Faizal Isa performed Black or White with the Singapore Police Force (SPF) Band. “I dare say it’s the best version of the song I’ve ever heard!” he enthuses.

Motivated by how much his NS journey shaped him, Sharne volunteers on the HomeTeamNS Strategic Review Committee (since 2022) and the Branding & Publicity Committee (since 2025). “Seeing HomeTeamNS grow is truly satisfying,” he says. “Helping to keep it at the top of its game is my way of giving back, so that NSFs and NSmen are rewarded and recognised for their service.”

SING LIKE A STAR AT JEWEL MUSIC BOX

Ready to belt out a power ballad or unleash your inner rock star? From now until 31 August 2025, the newly opened Jewel Music Box at HomeTeamNS Bedok Reservoir is having an exclusive SG60 promotion where HomeTeamNS members and their accompanying guests can enjoy 60% off room rates (per person). Terms and conditions apply*

SING, SINGAPORE: SHARNE’S SG60 PLAYLIST

These days, Sharne puts his musical skills to good use, performing annually at charity concerts and making regular appearances at musical theatre open mic nights.

Sharne (with his guitar) jamming with church friends at a lively Christmas get-together in 2016.

For Singapore’s 60th birthday, we asked Sharne to fill in the blanks and share the songs that define his love for local music.

Every National Day, the NDP songs I just can’t help singing along to are… Home by Kit Chan and Count On Me Singapore by Clement Chow because they have a special place in my heart.”

When I think of the local TV shows I grew up watching, the song that reminds me most of them is… Phua Chu Kang’s theme song because it’s retro and quirky.” 

The homegrown artiste whose music I enjoy most is… Dominic Chin. He’s a fantastic singer and songwriter. My Love and CLSE2U are my favourites — the former shows his range, and the latter is heart-wrenching.” 

A Singaporean indie band I really like is… The Steve McQueens. I recommend Hephaestus, because its jazz-inspired musical structure is mind-blowing.”

A made-in-Singapore song I enjoy in a different language is… Midnight Kiss (午夜香吻) by Seong Koon Low Won. It’s arguably my grandfather’s most famous song and I’ve been hearing it ever since I was born. I’ve also performed it many times and it’s always a hit with audiences.”

The song that best describes growing up in Singapore for me is… Singapore Town, because living here is about exploring new places and finding happiness.” 

A song that I associate with older members of my family is… Dick Lee’s Fried Rice Paradise, because my parents seem to sing it every time we order fried rice.” 

One song I love belting out with my NS mates is… Stand Up For Singapore. It’s literally what we do at Parades — stand up!”

A local song that always lifts my mood is… cool with it by brb because it’s such a cheeky bop.

One wild card that deserves to be on my SG60 playlist is… SAR21 by Of Methodist. It’s such an unserious take on NS and captures the shared experience that all Singaporean boys go through.

Asked about his wish for Singapore’s music scene, Sharne highlights the need to develop young, aspiring musicians. “I hope more Singaporeans take the time to discover and support our incredible local talents,” he says. “Pick a few and be true fans — show up at their gigs, stream their songs on Spotify, and support them however you can. This way, we can uplift homegrown stars to the national, regional, or even international stage.”

Like our stories? Subscribe to our Frontline Digital newsletters now! Simply download the HomeTeamNS Mobile App and update your communication preference to ‘Receive Digital Frontline Magazine’, through the App Settings.

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